What is the reason for having a small, movable lump inside the knee, and what should I do about it?
Nov 09, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
In general, a small movable lump inside the knee may be caused by loose bodies, knee joint effusion, meniscal cyst, synovial cyst, lipoma, or similar conditions. In daily life, it is important to use the knee joint appropriately and avoid excessive exercise that could damage the knee joint. If the condition persists for a prolonged period, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention to avoid adverse effects on recovery.
Generally speaking, the knee refers to the knee joint. A small movable lump inside the knee joint may be caused by loose bodies, knee joint effusion, meniscal cyst, synovial cyst, lipoma, and other conditions. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Loose Bodies
Due to the wear and tear or peeling of articular cartilage, these small fragments of cartilage may become detached and float freely within the joint cavity, forming loose bodies resembling small lumps. These loose bodies can freely move within the joint cavity while immersed in joint fluid, possibly resulting in a movable lump. Usually, no specific treatment is required; symptoms can be relieved by mobilizing the knee joint or taking slight rest.
2. Knee Joint Effusion
Knee joint effusion may be caused by conditions such as knee trauma or arthritis. This condition may lead to aseptic inflammation within the joint, causing symptoms of joint swelling. It may also be accompanied by joint pain and limited mobility. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Celecoxib Capsules, Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-Release Capsules, and Synovitis Granules may be used for treatment.
3. Meniscal Cyst
When the meniscus is damaged by sports injuries or long-term wear and tear, fluid from the internal tissues may leak out and accumulate at the edge of the meniscus, forming a cyst. Since the meniscus has some mobility within the knee joint, the cyst may also move accordingly, resulting in the aforementioned condition. It may be accompanied by pain and swelling. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Loxoprofen Sodium Tablets, Blood-Activating and Pain-Relieving Capsules, and Glucosamine Hydrochloride Capsules may be used for treatment.
4. Synovial Cyst
A synovial cyst may be caused by trauma, chronic injury, synovitis, or similar conditions. It typically appears as single or multiple swellings, usually colorless, transparent, or slightly reddish, presenting as a movable small lump on the knee joint. It may also be accompanied by swelling and the presence of a mass. Under medical guidance, medications such as Ibuprofen Capsules, Paracetamol Granules, and Indomethacin Capsules may be used for treatment.
5. Lipoma
A lipoma is a benign tumor formed by abnormal proliferation of adipose tissue. Due to genetic factors, local inflammatory stimulation, or other causes, fat cells may begin to proliferate excessively, forming an encapsulated mass resembling a small lump. It feels soft and elastic upon palpation and can move. If the lipoma is large or located in a special position, it may compress surrounding nerves, leading to localized knee pain. It may also be accompanied by numbness and difficulty in movement. Under medical guidance, medications such as Prunella Vulgaris Capsules, Celecoxib Capsules, and Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-Release Tablets may be used for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to use the knee joint appropriately and avoid excessive exercise that could damage the knee joint. If the condition persists for a prolonged period, timely medical consultation is recommended to avoid adverse effects on recovery.
